Rural thefts drop, but owners told to lock away their belongings

Rural crime has fallen by 20% in the past year — thanks to the vigilance of horse owners and country police.

The latest figures come from insurance company NFU Mutual, which received claims for £42.3million during 2012, down 19.7% on 2011.

Of that, £1.3m was equine and livestock-related equipment, stolen from farms, homes, shows and livery yards.

The company attributes the fall in crime to the “increased awareness and effort” made by country people and police. But owners are warned not to be complacent.

“While a 20% drop in crime is encouraging, it’s important to remember that rural crime is still taking place,” said Nicki Whittaker of the NFU. “Horse owners and farmers are a common target for thieves.”

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